Building a home in the tropical climate of Southwest Florida is a dream come true for many homeowners. Choosing your selections, like wall and floor coverings takes a little bit of research to ensure you make the right choices for your family and lifestyle.
Today, we want to give you some insight into several options that will withstand the tropical temperatures and moisture of the Florida heat.
6 Flooring Options for your Florida Home – Part 1: Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are made from clay, and often find a home in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where there is a lot of moisture. The reason? Even though they are not considered waterproof, they both are water resistant and stand up well to dirt and debris.
In fact, porcelain is harder, denser, tougher, and less porous than ceramic tile. Porcelain also has a very low absorption rate, meaning it’s virtually impervious to water damage, even after prolonged exposure.
Another benefit is the glazed material which is cool to the touch – great for hot summer days. These tiles are difficult to crack and will not contract or expand like traditional wood floors or warp in the heat. Plus, they are elegant looking!
The choices in style, color, and texture are numerous. Solid tiles can be mixed-and-matched in patterns or accented with custom designs or motifs. They can also reproduce the look of hardwoods and natural stones.
Finally, the tiles themselves can be cut and shaped into triangles, rectangles, and planks.
Ceramic and porcelain tile are both ideal for any high traffic area, especially foyers, mudrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. Be aware they are extremely hard; therefore, dishes can break easily if dropped, and may be an issue in a room used by those prone to falls.
2. Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Today’s vinyl tiles are beautiful and durable, seamlessly working with any interior design.
Thanks to its multiple layers, luxury vinyl can withstand moisture, heavy foot traffic, scratches, and spills. In addition, vinyl flooring is waterproof and won’t expand or contract with changes in temperature or moisture.
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) boasts a long-life span, durability, and comfort. It has just the right amount of firmness and “give,” meaning it springs a bit when you walk on it for a comfortable feel underfoot.
Vinyl comes in a variety of finishes and effects mimicking stone, marble, concrete, wood, or mosaics.
Alongside these benefits, vinyl is less likely than tile to crack or chip, making it a pet and family-friendly flooring option.
Luxury vinyl planks snap together to create a floating floor over the existing floor.
The ease of installation and affordability make vinyl a popular option for Florida homeowners.
6 Flooring Options for your Florida Home – Part 1: Engineered Hardwood
If you want the traditional look of hardwood flooring which also adapts well to the warm climate, engineered hardwood is a great choice.
Engineered wood is genuine wood, but only on the surface. The upper layer is comprised of a very thin cut of the desired wood species followed by layers of various wooden materials.
Engineered wood flooring is designed to deflect moisture problems. It is finished with a very tough, waterproof surface sealer; however, both the surface veneer and the plywood base layers are wood. Therefore, if these layers get wet, they become susceptible to swelling and warping.
Their UV-cure urethane finish intensifies their durability and makes them resistant to scratches. With all the sand and sunlight in our Florida homes, this extra protection is helpful.
Engineered hardwood floors are also known to be more stable than solid hardwood as the manufactured wood moves less than real wood. Contrary to real wood that needs to be nailed in place, hardwood planks can simply snap together for an easier and cleaner installation process.
No matter which option you choose, opting for high-quality flooring, installing an appropriate underlayment, and using the right tools and materials will help ensure your floor will look and perform great for years to come.
Contact Richardson Homes
As you consider flooring options to match your lifestyle and aesthetics, contact us for advice before getting started. You can count on us to guide you through the selection and installation of your renovation project or custom home. Call Jason, 239 694 8889.
